ADC Factional Leader Nafiu Banda Blasts Kwankwaso Over Northern Unity Proposal
Nafiu Bala, a prominent factional leader within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has issued a scathing critique of former Kano State governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, following a recent personal conversation between the two political figures. In an interview with Premier Radio, Bala confirmed that Kwankwaso reached out to him directly, proposing what he described as a solution for the Northern region of Nigeria.
Rejection of Kwankwaso's Proposal
Bala firmly rejected Kwankwaso's idea, stating in strong terms that any discussion about the North involving individuals like Kwankwaso is futile. He accused Kwankwaso and his allies of being responsible for the country's political deterioration, highlighting deep-seated frustrations within Northern political circles.
"Kwankwaso called me telling me this is the solution for the North, a way out, I said no. Any discussion concerning the North with people like you is rubbish because you're the same people who destroyed the country," Bala declared during the interview.
Election Dispute and Accusations
Expanding on his criticism, Bala pointed to the last general election, where he claimed Kwankwaso refused to step down for Atiku Abubakar, a fellow Northerner, despite appeals from political associates. Bala argued that this decision weakened Northern unity and inadvertently facilitated the victory of President Bola Tinubu.
"Even in the last conducted election we begged Kwankwaso to step down for a Northerner, Atiku Abubakar, but he refused and went ahead with his candidature under a small party just to split our votes and pave the way for Tinubu," Bala explained, underscoring the perceived strategic misstep.
Political Tensions in the North
This public rebuke underscores the ongoing tensions and rivalries among Northern political leaders, reflecting broader struggles for influence and cohesion in the region. Bala's remarks highlight a growing discontent with Kwankwaso's political maneuvers and their impact on the North's role in national governance.
Who is Nafiu Bala?
Nafiu Bala is a Nigerian politician hailing from Gombe State, who has gained prominence as a factional leader of the ADC. He has been at the forefront of the party's internal leadership crisis, challenging rival factions and advocating for democratic reforms within the party.
Known for his outspoken nature, Bala has protested at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and criticized imposed leadership structures, positioning himself as a key figure in opposition politics and ADC's ongoing disputes.
Background on ADC Internal Crisis
The ADC has been embroiled in internal conflicts since July 2025, with Bala and a group led by David Mark both asserting leadership claims. These disputes have escalated into legal battles, leading to INEC derecognizing both factions in response to a Court of Appeal judgment from March 12.
Bala's involvement was notably highlighted during the party's unveiling of interim leadership in July 2025, where he was seen alongside stakeholders like Kenneth Okonkwo at the Shehu Musa Yar'Adua Centre in Abuja, further complicating the party's unity efforts.
